Good Morning,

Paul Motz, one of our managers at Terex GM, years ago would say this over and over as an employee was promoted in the organization. He was cautioning us to be careful and not walk all over others as we clawed our way to the top. People change, organizational goals change, owners change and so do their views on who would occupy key positions. As GM was not one to fire its people in management positions, they were, merely, demoted, usually, working for someone they formerly supervised.

As I spend more and more time in this world, I see the stepping on others to get ahead play out in business, social organizations and neighborhood associations as well as city, state, and national governments. Too often friendship and loyalty is merely vehicles used to reach goals, dropped as soon as they are no longer useful. I'm sure, if you think of it, you have too.

When this happens, bitterness and resentment happen. They linger, just waiting for a chance to get even. After stepping on them on the way up, facing them on the way down that ladder is, usually, not pretty. As the saying goes: "I don't get mad. I get even". Overcoming this attitude is best saved for another day.

Climbing the ladder of success is laudable. Stepping on others with a take them out at all costs mentality while doing so is not. May the best person win. Strive to be that best person.

Have a great week.

Jim